Sumac, Ground

If you enjoy hummus, try topping it with a sprinkling of sumac. Sumac is considered essential for cooking in much of the Middle East. Sumac has a very nice, fruity-tart flavour which is not quite as overpowering as lemon. Flakes from the berry are a lovely, deep red colour which makes a very attractive garnish. Sumac is used to flavour marinades for kebabs, as a garnish on hummus, and in salads such as tabbouleh and fattoush. Ground Sumac adds a wonderful red colour and good lemon flavour to roast chicken.